A wedding day moves fast, and each part of the day calls for specific photos. From the bride and groom prep to the ceremony, to the reception and grand exit, every moment has its own set of must-have shots. Knowing what to capture and when ensures you don’t miss the moments that matter most.

The truth is, you don’t always have a lot of time. Schedules change, things run late, and before you know it, you’re squeezing wedding portraits into a short window. That’s why having a solid game plan is key, so you need to know exactly what shots you want to do and how to get them. This keeps the session smooth and stress-free while ensuring you capture the best kind of wedding photos your couple will absolutely love.

1. Look at the Camera Shot

Starting off with the simplest shot of the day – have your couple stop, stand together, and look straight at the camera. Snap one vertically and one horizontally, and you’re good to go.

I know, I know, it’s not the most exciting shot. But here’s the thing, this is the photo that gets framed on the parents’ mantle, sent out in holiday cards, and the one that your couple would keep forever. You definitely shouldn’t miss this shot! Trust me, no matter how many dreamy, cool and creative wedding photos we deliver, the classic, looking-at-the-camera shot will always be a favorite.

So before you move on to other wedding portrait photos, take a second and capture the moment. Your couple (and their family) will thank you later.

2. Walking Shot

Walking shots are definitely a must have wedding portrait – and they’re so easy to work into the day! Here’s how.

Start at your ideal wedding portrait location then work your way back to the venue. And instead of just moving between spots, use that time to capture a natural walking shot. Have your couple walk together while you snap away. It keeps the session flowing and maximizes your time.

Bonus: If you’re working with a videographer, they’ll love this shot too. Capture yours first, then step aside so they can get theirs. A little teamwork goes a long way in creating stunning couple portraits!

3. Laughing Shot

Natural, candid laughter makes for some of the best wedding photos. Instead of stiff poses, create a fun moment for your couple by setting up a simple game or playful interaction – something that shifts their focus to each other rather than the camera.

An easy post to pull this off as well is have them spoon while the groom whispers something in the bride’s ear (bonus points if it’s ridiculous). Or ask them to say something silly. The key is interaction, not just posing. If you know your couple well, throw in an inside joke to get those real, unfiltered laughs.

4. Close up and Detail Shot

While capturing your main shots, don’t forget to zoom in for a close-up and detail shot. These intimate wedding portraits add depth to your gallery and highlight the little moments that matter.

When your couple settles into a pose, don’t forget to take a close-up – whether it’s her ring on his hand, his watch, their intertwined fingers, or the smile they share as they lean in. Hold the pose, switch to a tighter lens, and capture those intimate detail shots before moving on.

Pro tip: Remember that a single pose can give you up to five or six different shots. Work smart, small adjustments go a long way!

5. Solo Shot

Solo portraits of the bride and groom are a must-have in any wedding portrait session. It’s what the family wants. They all want a beautiful photo of their son or daughter on the wedding day. While couple portraits capture their love story, solo portraits hold just as much meaning as well.

Pro Tip: Be sure to prioritize these early in the session. Don’t wait too long and risk running out of time or losing the best light. By capturing them first, you’re making sure they’re done beautifully without the stress of squeezing them in later.

Must-have Bride portraits:

• Solo portrait, both vertical and horizontal, that’s important

• Close-up of bouquet (Always check for personal mementos, especially in memory of a loved one often tucked at the base of the flowers)

• Detail shots of jewelry like ring, necklace, and earrings

• Full body shot, be sure to show off that dress!

• Details of the dress (especially the back if it has intricate designs)

Must-have Groom portraits:

• Start with a Solo portrait as well

• Detail shots of tie, cufflinks, and jewelry he might have

• Close-up shot of Boutonniere (flower on his left side)

• Candid portriat shots of him buttoning his suit, fixing his tie, and tying his shoes

Capture the Moments that Matter

At the end of the day, wedding photography is more than just taking pictures – It’s about capturing timeless wedding photos that your couples will cherish forever. Having a solid plan keeps things smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on getting the shots that matter. By nailing these essential shots, you’re giving them a collection of images that will bring them back to their wedding day every time they look at them.

But capturing great photos isn’t just about checking off a shot list, it’s also about adding variety and creativity. A mix of classic, candid, and artistic poses will help you tell a more complete story of their very special day.